When people think of plumbing, they often imagine someone unblocking toilets or fixing a leaking pipe. But there’s a lot more to it than that, and if you’re serious about getting into this field, you’re going to need more than a wrench and a toolbox. Becoming a plumber is a solid career choice, and if you’re looking for steady, well-paid work that’s always in demand, plumbing could be the path for you. But, like any trade, it’s not without its challenges.
In this article, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about starting a career as a plumber. I’ll cover qualifications, apprenticeships, tools you’ll need, and the reality of the job market. Spoiler alert: this isn’t an overnight success story—it’s a path that requires hard work and commitment. If you’re up for that, let’s dive in.
What Does a Plumber Actually Do?
Let’s start with what plumbing is. Yes, it involves pipes, water, and occasionally some unpleasant tasks, but there’s more to the role than meets the eye. Plumbers install and repair water supply lines, waste disposal systems, and heating systems. You might find yourself fitting bathrooms, dealing with gas pipes, installing radiators, or working on large commercial systems.
A typical day could involve anything from diagnosing a leak in someone’s home to working on complex systems in a hospital or factory. And it’s not just about water either—gas engineers often start out as plumbers. The more you learn, the more options you have.
One of the best things about plumbing is the diversity of work. You’re not stuck at a desk all day. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—you’ll be called out at strange hours, deal with bad weather, and sometimes be elbow-deep in something you’d rather not be. But if you’ve got the stomach for it, plumbing can be incredibly rewarding.
Do You Need Qualifications to Be a Plumber?
Yes. And no. It depends on where you live and what kind of work you want to do. In the UK, for instance, you need specific qualifications to be considered a qualified plumber. While some older plumbers might have “learned on the job” back in the day, that’s not going to fly anymore.
At a minimum, you’re looking at completing an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in plumbing. These are nationally recognized qualifications, and you’ll need to demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. If you’re planning on working with gas, you’ll also need to be Gas Safe registered (formerly CORGI registered). You can’t mess around with gas systems without proper training—this is one area where the regulations are strict for a reason.
The Apprenticeship Route: Why It’s Worth Considering
If you think you can skip the apprenticeship route, think again. Plumbing is a trade, and trades are learned by doing. You need to get your hands dirty—literally and figuratively. The vast majority of plumbers start with an apprenticeship, which is usually a blend of on-the-job training and classroom learning.
Most plumbing apprenticeships last between two and four years, depending on the level you’re aiming for. During that time, you’ll work under the supervision of a qualified plumber, gaining the practical skills you need. In return, you’ll get a small wage. And I do mean small—apprentices aren’t paid much, but you’re earning while you learn, which is more than most university students can say.
The upside to this is that once you’ve finished your apprenticeship, you’re qualified and ready to work. Employers are always looking for good plumbers, and you’ll be entering a trade where there’s a skills shortage, which means more opportunities for you.
Not the Academic Type? That’s Fine
Let’s be real—if you’re not the kind of person who enjoys sitting in a classroom or reading textbooks, plumbing could be a good fit. While you do need to learn some theory, the bulk of your training is going to be hands-on. You’ll learn how to diagnose problems, figure out what’s wrong with a system, and fix it.
However, don’t think this is just manual labor. Plumbing requires problem-solving skills, a bit of math (you’re working with measurements all the time), and the ability to think on your feet. It’s not brain surgery, but you do need a good head on your shoulders.
Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need
If you’re serious about plumbing, get ready to invest in tools. Most employers will expect you to have your own basic set, though more expensive specialist tools may be provided. You’ll need things like pipe wrenches, pliers, a pipe cutter, spanners, and a decent toolkit to carry it all in.
Here’s the kicker: good tools aren’t cheap. You can easily spend a couple of hundred pounds on a basic setup, and over the years, you’ll probably amass a small fortune in gear. But this is your bread and butter—cheap out on tools, and you’ll regret it when they break or fail at the worst possible moment. Buy quality from the start.
Going Self-Employed or Working for a Company?
Once you’re qualified, you’ve got a couple of options: you can work for a company, or you can go self-employed. Both have their pros and cons, and it’s important to think carefully about what kind of lifestyle you want.
Working for a company gives you stability. You know you’ve got regular work and a steady paycheck. You don’t have to worry about sourcing clients or dealing with paperwork. However, your earnings will be capped—your employer takes a cut, and you’ll be working set hours.
Going self-employed, on the other hand, offers more freedom. You can set your own hours, choose the jobs you want to take on, and potentially earn a lot more. But—and this is a big “but”—you also have to handle everything yourself. That means finding clients, doing your own accounting, buying materials, and dealing with any issues that arise. And let’s be real, chasing unpaid invoices is no fun.
If you want the best of both worlds, consider starting out working for a company to get experience, and then transitioning to self-employment once you’ve built up a solid client base.
The Truth About Earnings: How Much Does a Plumber Make?
This is the part everyone wants to know: how much money can you make? The good news is, plumbing is one of the better-paid trades out there. Starting out as an apprentice, you’re looking at around £12,000 to £18,000 per year, depending on where you live and who you work for. Not exactly life-changing money, but remember, you’re learning.
Once you’re qualified, you can expect to earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year if you’re working for a company. If you go self-employed, the sky’s the limit. Experienced plumbers can earn £50,000 or more, especially if you specialize in a high-demand area like gas fitting or emergency call-outs.
Bear in mind, though, that self-employment comes with expenses. You’ll need to pay for tools, transport, insurance, and all the other costs of running a business. So while the top-line number might look impressive, your take-home pay will be a bit lower once everything’s accounted for.
What About Job Security?
One of the biggest draws of plumbing is the job security. Let’s face it—people are always going to need water, heating, and toilets. Even in a recession, plumbers are still in demand. It’s not a job that can be outsourced to another country, and it’s not going to be replaced by automation anytime soon.
If you’re looking for a career that offers stability and the potential to earn well, plumbing is a solid choice. That said, the industry is competitive, especially in big cities. You’ll need to be good at what you do, and you’ll need to keep up with new technology and techniques to stay ahead of the game.
The Downside: What They Don’t Tell You
I’m going to be honest with you—plumbing isn’t always a walk in the park. Sure, there’s job security, but there are some tough realities too. For one, the physical demands of the job can take a toll. You’re going to spend a lot of time on your knees, in tight spaces, and lifting heavy equipment. Over time, that can add up to aches and pains, especially as you get older.
Then there’s the “dirty” part of the job. Let’s not sugarcoat it—you’re going to deal with blocked drains, sewage systems, and other unsavory situations. If you’re squeamish, this might not be the right career for you.
Finally, being on call can be exhausting. If you’re self-employed or offering emergency services, you could be called out at all hours. Plumbing emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, so be prepared for some late nights and early mornings.
Is Plumbing Right for You?
So, should you become a plumber? If you’re looking for a stable, well-paid job with room for growth, and you don’t mind working with your hands (and occasionally getting dirty), plumbing could be a great career for you. You’ll need patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn, but the rewards are there if you’re willing to put in the effort.
However, if you’re just looking for a quick buck, or you’re not prepared for the hard work that comes with learning a trade, you might want to think twice. Plumbing is a long-term career, and it’s one that requires dedication. But if you’re willing to stick with it, you could find yourself in a job that not only pays well but also offers independence and satisfaction.
Final Thoughts: Take the Plunge (Pun Intended)
Starting a career as a plumber isn’t easy. It takes time, effort, and a bit of thick skin to deal with the messier parts of the job. But if you can push through the challenges, the rewards are significant. Plumbing offers a career with flexibility, solid earnings potential, and above all, job security. There will always be demand for skilled plumbers, and once you’ve built up your reputation, the work will keep coming.
So, take the plunge (yes, pun intended), invest in your training, and start your apprenticeship. You’ll be learning a valuable trade that will serve you well for years to come. Whether you decide to work for a company or strike out on your own, you’ll be entering a profession that’s respected and essential.
Just remember, it won’t always be glamorous, and there will be days when you question your decision. But when you’re earning good money, solving problems, and helping people with their water and heating systems, you’ll realize that plumbing is more than just fixing leaks—it’s about creating something that people rely on every single day.
If that sounds like a challenge you’re ready to take on, then welcome to the world of plumbing. Grab your wrench, get to work, and who knows—maybe one day you’ll have your own team of apprentices looking up to you.
